On the use of long-range radars for Space Situational Awareness: an experimental test

Paper number

IAC-15,A6,IP,40,x29619

Author

Dr. Marco MOLINA, Selex ES, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Sandro Strappaveccia, Selex ES S.p.A, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Giuseppe Sgamba, Gen., Aeronautica Militare Italiana, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Piero Gilberto Serra, Colonel, Aeronautica Militare Italiana, Rome, Italy, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Walter Villadei, Lt. Colonel, Aeronautica Militare Italiana, Rome, Italy, Italy

Coauthor

Dr. Ferdinando Dolce, Italian Air Force, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Marco Reali, Captain, Aeronautica Militare Italiana, Rome, Italy, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Fabio Feudo, Selex ES S.p.A, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Roberto Petrucci, Selex ES S.p.A, Italy

Coauthor

Mrs. Vittoria Simeone, Selex ES S.p.A, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Sandro Immediata, Selex ES S.p.A, Italy

Coauthor

Mr. Domenico Vigilante, Selex ES S.p.A, Italy

Year

2015

Abstract

This paper reports on the results achieved in an experimental test conducted with the Selex ES RAT (Radar Avvistamento Terrestre) 31DL long range radar in December 2014. 
The objective of the test was to determine the capability of the radar in detecting and tracking Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and debris with an external cue command derived by the NORAD two line elements. 
The test has been prepared and conducted together with the Italian Air Force in the frame of the italian support to European Space Situational Awareness (SSA) program and in particular for the development of a dual-use function for the detection and tracking of space or orbital debris. 
Test setup and orbits simulation aiming at RADAR tuning and optimization are presented in the paper, as well as the field test results.

Abstract document

IAC-15,A6,IP,40,x29619.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

(absent)